Status of end of life care in organizations providing services for older people with a developmental disability

Volunteers of America conducted a national survey of directors of 500 organizations providing services to older people with an intellectual disability in order to establish a baseline for assessing current status of end of life care. The questionnaire contained 56 questions. The return rate was 32% (N = 160). Data analysis provided an overview of organizational needs, resource allocations, end of life care services currently provided, obstacles to care, methods for monitoring such care, and existing and recommended strategies for improving this care. Results underscored the needs for practical guidelines and resources, increased staffing and training, and policy-level reduction of obstacles to promote improved end of life care.